Library & Information Officer

Date: 3 Aug 2026

Location: Yeovil, GB, BA20 1PY

Company: Somerset Council

Salary: Grade 14, ranging from £16,676 – £17,208 per annum.

Contract: Permanent.

Hours: 24.5 hours per week.

Closing date: 17/08/26

 

About the Role 

As a Library and Information Officer, you will deliver a welcoming, inclusive library service, supporting a wide range of customers, partners and organisations. You’ll respond to enquiries, help people make the most of digital and self-service tools, and bring libraries to life by planning and promoting engaging activities – all while working closely with volunteers to create a positive and rewarding experience.

 

How You'll Make a Difference 

  • Deliver a friendly, customer-focused library service, supporting enquiries in person, by phone and online, and resolving issues effectively.
  • Help customers access library services, digital resources and technology, promoting self-service tools and building digital confidence.
  • Plan, promote and deliver engaging library activities, inspiring reading and connecting people with books, resources and events.
  • Work with volunteers, partners and community groups to create inclusive, welcoming and rewarding experiences.
  • Maintain library collections, support daily operations and contribute to service performance and continuous improvement.
  • Ensure services are safe, accessible and compliant, championing equality, diversity and inclusion for all customers.

 

What You'll Bring 

  • 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at Grade 4/C or above, including English and Maths.
  • Strong communication, listening and customer service skills, with the ability to engage confidently with a wide range of people.
  • Ability to prioritise work, manage competing demands and work flexibly, including evenings, weekends and across different library locations.
  • Confident working independently, using initiative and taking responsibility for resources, premises and service delivery.
  • Experience promoting services and information through displays, digital tools and a range of communication channels.
  • Ability to build positive relationships with colleagues, volunteers, partners and community organisations.
  • Confidence in managing challenging situations, assessing risk and resolving conflict calmly and professionally.
  • Positive, adaptable and proactive approach, with a commitment to learning, development and continuous improvement.

 

Why Join Us? 

At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life. 

  • Generous annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave. 
  • Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes. 
  • Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow. 
  • Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services. 
  • Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work. 

Find out more about working at Somerset Council: 
https://www.somerset.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers/working-at-somerset-council/ 

 

Further Information 

  • Permanent, 24 hours per week based on a 2-week timetable.
    • Week 1

Monday: 9.30am -5.30pm, Tuesday: 9.30am -6.00pm, Wednesday: 9.00 – 5.30pm, Saturday:9.30 – 4.00pm

    • Week 2

Tuesday: 9.30 – 5.30pm, Wednesday: 9.00 – 5.30pm, Friday: 9.30 – 5.30pm.

          

  • 25 day’s annual leave (additional to bank holidays), Pro Rata for Part Time.
  • A Customer facing role based at Yeovil Library

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship.  

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Paul Hawkings, Library Supervisor at paul.hawkings@somerset.gov.uk  

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset. 

You can find a copy of the job description here: AG0840 Library and Information Officer

1215/AMB